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Modes
include Training, Cup, Super Cup, Trophy, Custom Battles
and Grudge Matches. The Grudge Matches are quick and
easy to get into and don't require anything more than
playing one match at a time. Custom Battles lets you
set various parameters such as the duration of each
match and the restriction of power-ups if you feel
that you just want to play a core game of soccer without
all the silliness. Of course the silliness is not
just a topping, it's marinated into the gameplay.
There are random events to worry about as well such
as when Bowser drops in unexpectedly to incinerate
any player that gets close to him on the field. He
can also tilt the playing field so that one team will
be playing downhill while the other has to move the
ball uphill.
All
of these events are fun to compensate for, at least
while they're fresh. However I was quite surprised
to find that I actually looked forward to these unexpected
challenges as I became more confident with my control
of the game. I just wanted to see how much better
I was at neutralizing these silly threats that I fully
expected to become a novelty in a few hours. I don't
imagine I'll play the single-player game for weeks
on end but the multi-player mode might be a different
story.
Up
to four players can participate in the multi-player
mode with two players on each team. Playing as the
captain is arguably the most fun since he's got the
most moves at his disposal but if you don't get an
argument from your teammate, don't mention it. Tell
him or her how important defense is, and don't forget
that freezing an enemy or forcing them into an electric
fence can still be a lot of fun. The most fun comes
with the verbal sparring between players as there
is a lot of aggressiveness to the gameplay with all
of the power-ups and attacks that can for some very
unfair advantages. I would take bets that the most
used sentence, or variation thereof, would be "I'm
going to get you, you #%$~*+#!" In other words,
beautiful Holiday sentiments for your Mom and Dad
to gaze upon each other lovingly and knowingly for
the little monsters they've created.
Animations
of mid-air kicks, bicycle kicks, flying headers, fireballs,
saves, interceptions, tackles, explosions and a host
of violent assaults should manage to entertain player
for weeks to come. All of the animations are perfectly
timed and are quite funny to watch. So much so that
you'll find yourself pulling some of these moves just
to watch the other team get hurt with little regard
for scoring.
All
of the characters look excellent although they are
rendered slightly more aggressive looking to appear
intimidating. Don't expect a lot of voiceovers, there
is no storyline and few cutscenes. The music is catchy
and the crowds' cheers should get you motivated. Delivered
in Pro Logic II you will literally be surrounded by
the cheers and jeers of the lively, animated crowd.
There is a lack of arenas and the backgrounds tend
to look blurry.
Super
Mario Strikers is a decent little soccer game even
though it's not loaded with options. It's a good addition
to your Cube collection, especially if you plan on
taking advantage of the four-player mode. Otherwise
rent this one as the single-player mode will only
give you a few days of entertainment.
By
StewXX
CCC
Staff Writer
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Will
Nintendo ever stop whoring out poor Mario? This guy
should be retiring, but no! He's playing baseball,
golf, tennis and now soccer. Last time I checked the
people of Mushroom Kingdom were pretty pissed that
they're toilets were backed up and Mario was goofing
off playing kick ball down the street. 
